In Southwest Washington, the nonprofit organization Cloth and Foster is making a significant impact by supporting foster families with essential items. Founded by Brittany and Aric Clapp in 2020, the organization aims to empower caregiver families by providing clothing, bedding, personal care items, and more to children in foster care and their caregivers.
Meeting a Growing Need
Having fostered over 40 children themselves, the Clapps understand the unique challenges faced by foster families. They started Cloth and Foster to address the immediate needs that arise when a new child enters a home. Often, foster caregivers receive funding only 30 to 45 days after a child arrives, leaving them scrambling to provide necessary items. Cloth and Foster helps bridge this gap by offering a wide range of donated goods readily available for caregivers.
With a warehouse full of supplies, the organization serves hundreds of caregivers annually across Clark, Cowlitz, Skamania, and Lewis counties. The process is streamlined through a request form system, allowing caregivers to quickly access the items they need. Last year, Cloth and Foster assisted an average of 28 caregivers per month, and this March alone, they met 49 requests.
A Family and Community Effort
The Clapps’ dedication to foster care extends beyond their nonprofit work. They have three biological children and have adopted three others, making their mission a family project. Cloth and Foster operates with the help of community volunteers, none of whom receive payment for their contributions.
In addition to daily operations, Cloth and Foster organizes events throughout the year. Their most recent Christmas party served over 500 children and families, highlighting the growing demand for their services. The organization’s website provides more information on how to donate or get involved, sharing the Clapps’ story and their mission to ensure no caregiver has to face challenges alone.
Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.
